Victor Boniface's struggles to reclaim his starting spot at Bayer Leverkusen are raising serious questions about his place in the Super Eagles squad.
As he endures a goal drought and limited minutes, the rise of teammate Nathan Tella, who is consistently starting and scoring, further complicates the situation. With crucial World Cup qualifiers looming, is it time for Nigeria to reconsider Boniface's role?
The 24-year-old’s recent performance, or lack thereof, has been concerning. In Leverkusen's 4-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, he failed to find the net, extending his goalless streak.
Since returning from injury, he has managed just two goals in five games, averaging a mere 36.6 minutes per appearance. This limited game time, effectively making him Leverkusen's third-choice striker, contrasts sharply with Tella's growing influence.
Nathan Tella's ascendancy and Victor Boniface's struggles
Nathan Tella's impressive form for the reigning German champions is making a compelling case for his return to the Super Eagles. He has become a mainstay in Xabi Alonso's squad, contributing four goals and three assists across all competitions.
Despite his impressive displays in Germany, Tella has yet to receive a real opportunity with the Nigerian national team. The 25-year-old last featured for the Super Eagles in 2023, playing just 45 minutes against Zimbabwe. He was called up again in March 2024 for friendlies against Ghana and Mali but remained an unused substitute.
This raises an important question, why does Boniface continue to get chances while Tella is sidelined? The former Burnley forward has proven himself at the highest level and has the versatility to play as a winger or forward.
If Nigeria is looking for fresh attacking solutions, Tella surely deserves serious consideration.
Boniface, in contrast to his club form, has struggled to translate his success to the international stage, even during periods of peak performance. Despite his undeniable talent, his single goal in 11 Nigeria appearances, coupled with recent limited club minutes, casts doubt on his current readiness for the Super Eagles.
Super Eagles' need for game-winners in qualifiers
Nigeria’s World Cup qualification campaign has been nothing short of disastrous. The team sits fifth in Group C, behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe, with zero wins from four matches (three draws and one defeat).
If the Super Eagles are to salvage their chances, they must field their best-performing players, not those living off early-season form and reputation.
The upcoming qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe are now must-win encounters. Given Boniface’s struggles at both club and international level, it may be time for the coaching staff to look elsewhere.
Tella has proven himself recently at club level and arguably deserves more of a chance to show what he can do for Nigeria.
